Yakuza: Like a Dragonis one of the most critically acclaimed games in the series. It launched in 2020 to positive reception from both critics and fans, with a lot of praise given to the new protagonist Ichiban Kasuga. Ichiban had big shoes to fill asYakuza 6: The Song of Lifewas the last game starring theseries protagonist Kazuma Kiryu, but he quickly became a fan-favorite thanks to his endearing personality.
Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio confirmed last year thata sequel toYakuza: Like a Dragonis in development. Ichiban Kasuga will return as the protagonist along with the turn-based gameplay system that debuted inLike a Dragon. This game is supposed to take place several years after the events ofYakuza: Like a Dragon, but SEGA had not revealed any other information until today.
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Famitsu has just shared new screenshots of thein-developmentYakuza 8, known asRyu ga Gotoku 8in Japan. These off-screen images were taken from a behind-the-scenes video featuring MMA fighter Mikuru Asakura, who is also set to appear in the game. They feature a closer look at three of the main playable characters like Ichiban Kasuga, Koichi Adachi, and Yu Nanba, but fans will notice that Ichiban has changed his hairstyle.
He has opted to tie it instead of keep his iconic afro fromYakuza: Like a Dragon. The cutscene in which Ichiban gets the afro is pretty memorable and the characters tease him constantly for his hair. However, theYakuzagames are filled with fan service, so it will not be surprising to see him revert to the original hairstyle later on in the story. Additionally, it looks like Adachi and Nanba retain their original designs.
The Famitsu article also states thatYakuza 8features a new town. It’s fair to assume that most of the game will take place in the new city, similar to howLike a Dragonis centered around Yokohama. Likely, other cities will also be a part of the game, but fans will have to wait for a confirmation.
Unfortunately, this is the extent of the new information available as Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio is yet to officially reveal the game and its release window. This video was probably aimed at giving players a first look at the main characters alongside a tour of the studio.Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio is fairly efficient, so fans will probably not have to wait long before they can get their hands onYakuza 8.
